Probation

What Is Probation?

Probation is a sentence that allows the offender to live in the community under the supervision of a probation officer, and is based on the philosophy that the incarceration of some individuals may get in the way of their rehabilitation. A judge may choose to sentence an offender to probation after careful study of the offender’s background, behavior, and potential for success.
Probation can have a positive effect on the rehabilitation of the offender by allowing them to continue normal activities such as employment, education, and counseling. It can also minimize the impact of conviction upon an offender’s dependent family.

Reporting to the Probation Officer

The 81st District Court Probation Office is located in the basement of the Alcona County Building, just around the corner from the 81st District Court window. If you are scheduled to report to the probation officer, please be sure to arrive at the Probation Office at your scheduled time. If the probation officer is not in the Probation Office, please check in at the District Court window.

Understanding the Terms of Your Probation

If you are sentenced to probation, it is important that you complete the terms of your probation as ordered by the court. When a probationer fails to comply with any of the terms of the probation order, the probation officer is obligated to inform the court of the noncompliance. Noncompliance generally results in a probation violation hearing. If the probationer is found guilty or pleads guilty to the probation violation, the court may choose to modify the conditions of the existing probation, extend the probation period, or revoke the probation and impose a jail sentence.